2 people were killed and 13 others abducted, after gunmen attacked an 18-seater commercial bus operated by Benue Links Nigeria Limited on Thursday.
The attack occurred in Ikobi village, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.
News Band gathered that the attackers laid an ambush along the route and opened fire on the vehicle, killing the driver instantly and wounding a passenger before forcing the remaining occupants into the nearby forest.
A toddler was reportedly spared and left behind by the armed criminals.
The bus, marked with registration number PP512, was traveling from Makurdi to Otukpo when the unfortunate attack occurred near the Otukpo Burnt Bricks area.
Meanwhile, the management of the company in a statement issued through it’s information officer, Johnson Ehi, confirmed the incident.
It expressed sorrow over the tragic development.
Ehi said: “Regrettably, the driver of the 18-seater bus, Samuel Agege, and a front-seat passenger were fatally shot by the attackers. While the gunmen abduct the remaining passengers.”
He further explained that one passenger had alighted earlier in Taraku before the attack, and three individuals managed to escape the scene.
“The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and stands in solidarity with those whose loved ones are in captivity,” the statement read.
“We assure the general public that the management are in constant communication with security agencies, who are making concerted efforts to rescue the abducted passengers.
“The management however appreciate the swift response of the law enforcement agencies and express confidence in their ongoing efforts to rescue the abducted passengers.”